Last Updated on May 22, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you are looking for a plant that has numerous benefits, then you should consider growing an aloe vera plant. Aloe vera is known for its healing properties, and it can be used to treat a variety of conditions. However, if you don’t live in an area where aloe vera plants grow naturally, don’t worry!
There are many plants that look like aloe vera and have similar benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss 31 plants that look like aloe vera and their benefits.
10 Plants That Look Like Aloe Vera
1. Agave plant.
The agave plant is a succulent native to the deserts of North America. It has thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making it an ideal plant for dry climates. The agave plant is also known for its sharp, spiked leaves.
These leaves can be used to make ropes and fabric. The agave plant is also used to make tequila. The agave plant is a source of food and medicine for the native people of the Americas.
It has been used to treat wounds, burns, and stomach problems. The agave plant is also used in traditional Mexican folk medicine to treat diabetes.
2. Ariocarpus.
Commonly known as living rocks, ariocarpus are small, slow-growing succulents that resemble miniature cacti. Although they’re often mistaken for aloe vera plants, ariocarpus are actually more closely related to peyote and other mescaline-containing cacti.
These unusual looking plants have a number of benefits that make them ideal for both indoor and outdoor gardens.
Ariocarpus are native to the deserts of Mexico and Texas, where they grow in a wide variety of habitats. These plants are extremely drought tolerant and can survive for long periods without water. They’re also heat tolerant and can tolerate full sun exposure, making them ideal for use in hot, dry climates.
One of the most interesting things about ariocarpus is their ability to store water in their stems and leaves. This makes them extremely resistant to drought and heat stress, making them an excellent choice for xeriscaping (landscaping with drought-tolerant plants).
Ariocarpus are also relatively slow-growing, which means they don’t require a lot of maintenance or care.
3. Bergeranthus.
What a unique and interesting looking plant! It’s no wonder that this plant is often mistaken for aloe vera. Bergeranthus is a member of the Aizoaceae family and is native to South Africa.
This succulent has thick, fleshy leaves that store water and can survive in arid climates. Bergeranthus is a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for those who want to add a bit of greenery to their home without having to worry about watering it too often.
This plant is also known for its healing properties and has been used medicinally for centuries.
4. Dryland Bromeliads (Dyckia and Hechtia).
These plants are closely related to the pineapple and have many of the same benefits. They are drought tolerant, low maintenance, and require little water or fertilizer once established. Bromeliads also produce offsets or “pups” that can be removed and planted to create new plants.
Bromeliads come in a wide variety of colors and sizes and can be used as groundcover, in containers, or as accent plants in the landscape.
Dyckia are native to South America and most species are found in Brazil. They grow best in full sun and well-drained soils. Dyckias have sharp spines on their leaves that can make them difficult to handle. Hechtia is a genus of over 100 species that are native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Hechtias grow best in partial sun and well-drained soils. They are tolerant of poor soils, salt, and wind but will not tolerate wet feet.
5. Faucaria.
Faucaria is a genus of about 30 species of leaf-succulent plants native to southern Africa. The majority of the species are found in the Cape Provinces, with a few in the northern parts of South Africa and one in Namibia. Faucaria felina, commonly known as Tiger’s Jaw or Cat’s Mouth, is the best-known species.
Faucaria are easily recognizable by their fleshy, triangular leaves that grow in pairs and have serrated margins. The plants produce yellow or orange flowers in winter. Faucaria are often used as ornamental plants, but some species also have medicinal properties.
The Tiger’s Jaw plant is used to treat stomach problems, diarrhea, and dysentery. The leaves are also used as a poultice for wounds and bites. Faucaria felina is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Gasteria.
The name might not sound familiar, but you’ve probably seen this plant before and just didn’t know what it was. Gasteria is a succulent that looks strikingly similar to aloe vera, except it’s usually a bit smaller and has leaves that are more pointy and less fleshy.
Despite its similarities to aloe vera, gasteria is not related to the aloe plant. In fact, gasteria is part of the Asphodelaceae family, which includes amaryllis and ginger lily.
Like aloe vera, gasteria is a drought-tolerant plant that does well in dry or rocky soil. It’s also low-maintenance and can thrive indoors with bright, indirect sunlight.
7. Haworthia.
If you’re looking for a plant that looks strikingly similar to aloe vera, look no further than Haworthia. Although it’s not technically related to the true aloe plant, its thick, succulent leaves make it appear as if it could be a close relative.
And like aloe vera, Haworthia is known for its healing properties. The plant contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium.
When applied to the skin, it can help soothe burns, cuts, and other wounds. If you’re looking for a plant that offers both beauty and benefits, Haworthia is a great choice.
8. Hechtia.
Often called “octopus plant” or “Devil’s Claw”, this plant is a succulent that is native to Mexico. It has long, thin leaves that are often green or red in color.
The Hechtia is known for its ability to survive in dry conditions and can even thrive in poor soil. This makes it a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant.
Hechtia are not only beautiful, but they are also beneficial to your health. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Today, scientific studies have shown that the Hechtia can help to boost the immune system, fight inflammation, and even protect against cancer. If you are looking for a plant that is both aesthetically pleasing and good for your health, the Hechtia is a great choice.
9. Maguey.
Also known as agave, this plant is a succulent that is native to Mexico. It has been used for centuries in that country for its many benefits, including its ability to help with digestive issues and heal wounds. Maguey is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties.
While maguey looks similar to aloe vera, it is actually a member of the lily family. It grows in arid climates and can reach up to six feet tall. The plant’s leaves are thick and fleshy, and its flowers are green or yellow.
10. Pineapple plant.
Pineapple plants are a type of cactus that grows in the desert.
Pineapple plants are used to make medicine.
Pineapple plant is used for diabetes, stomach problems, and constipation.
Pineapple plant is also used for colds, flu, and bronchitis.
Pineapples are not only a delicious fruit, but they also have many health benefits.
Pineapples are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, beta-carotene, potassium, and manganese.
Pineapples also contain bromelain, an enzyme that helps to break down protein.
11. Snake Plant.
Snake plants are easy to take care of and they don’t need much water. They’re also known to improve air quality.
Sansevieria trifasciata, or snake plant, is a succulent native to West Africa. It gets its common name from the fact that it looks like it has snakes growing out of the soil.
The snake plant is easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for beginners. It is also known to improve air quality by filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.
12. Stapelia.
Stapelia is a genus of low-growing, spineless, leafless cactus-like plants found in southern Africa. The flowers are large and often fleshy, with a strong unpleasant odor reminiscent of rotting meat or carrion.
Despite their appearance and odor, stapelias are pollinated by flies which are attracted to the flowers by the odor. The genus is named after Johannes Stapel, 17th century Dutch botanist.
Stapelia species are used in traditional medicine in Africa for a variety of purposes. The flowers and stems are boiled to make a decoction which is taken as a treatment for diarrhea, dysentery and gastrointestinal disorders.
An infusion made from the flowers is used as an eye lotion. A poultice made from the pulverized leaves is applied to snake bites, scorpion stings and other wounds.
13. Yucca.
This plant is distantly related to the lily and has long, stiff leaves with saw-toothed edges. Its flowers are borne on a tall stalk and are white or pale pink. Yucca does best in full sun and sandy, well-drained soil. It’s an excellent choice for hot, dry sites.
This plant is also drought tolerant and deer resistant. Yucca is a low-maintenance plant that tolerates neglect. It’s also heat and cold tolerant.
When grown as a houseplant, yucca should be placed in bright light. Water when the soil dries out. Overwatering can cause root rot. Propagate by seed, offsets, or air layering. Yucca is also known as Spanish bayonet, aloe yucca, and Adam’s needle.
Poisonous plants that look like aloe vera.
There are a few poisonous plants that resemble aloe vera, so it’s important to be able to identify them.
1. Aloe Aculeata.
Aloe aculeata, commonly known as the prickly aloe, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. The plant grows in an upright rosette and can reach up to two meters in height. The leaves are thick and fleshy with sharp spines along the margins. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom in winter.
Aloe aculeata is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in landscaping. The plant is drought tolerant and can tolerate full sun or partial shade. It is important to note that the plant is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.
Symptoms of poisoning include stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you have any of these symptoms after consuming Aloe Vera gel, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Aloe Africana.
Aloe Africana is a succulent plant that is native to Africa. The leaves of the plant are thick and fleshy, and it has small yellow flowers.
The plant is poisonous, and it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested. If you have aloe plants in your home, be sure to keep them out of reach of children and pets.
3. Aloe Aristata.
Aloe Aristata is a succulent plant that is often confused with aloe vera. The two plants look very similar, but Aloe Aristata is actually poisonous. If ingested, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It is important to be able to identify Aloe Aristata so that you can avoid accidentally eating it.
Aloe Aristata is native to South Africa and is commonly found in gardens. It has long, thin leaves that are green or blue-green in color. The leaves are covered in white spots and have sharp teeth along the edges. The plant produces yellow or orange flowers.
4. Aloe Ballyi.
Aloe Ballyi is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. The plant is also known as the African Aloe, Bally’s Aloe, and the Mountain Aloe. The plant grows in rocky areas and has thick, fleshy leaves that are green with white spots.
The leaves of the plant are used to make a gel that can be applied to the skin to treat burns. The plant is also used as a decorative plant in gardens.
The plant is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you suspect that someone has ingested the plant, seek medical attention immediately.
5. Aloe broomii.
Aloe broomii is a species of flowering plant in the family Asphodelaceae, native to South Africa. It is an evergreen succulent perennial, growing to 50 cm (20 in) tall by 100 cm (39 in) wide, with blue-green leaves and yellow flowers.
Aloe broomii is poisonous if ingested, and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. The plant contains saponins, which are toxic to humans and animals. If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of this plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
6. Aloe chabaudii.
Aloe chabaudii is a species of flowering plant in the genus Aloe that is native to Southern Africa.
The leaves are blue-green with white spots and have a bitter taste.
The plant flowers in summer and produces yellow or orange flowers.
Aloe chabaudii is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.
If you have this plant in your home, be sure to keep it away from children and pets.
7. Aloe cryptopoda.
Aloe cryptopoda is a plant in the genus Aloe.
The specific epithet cryptopoda means “hidden foot”, referring to the flower stalk which is hidden by the leaves.
It is native to Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
Aloe cryptopoda grows in clumps of rosettes up to 80 cm tall.
The leaves are green with white spots and have a toothed margin.
The flowers are yellow, borne on an inflorescence up to 120 cm tall.
Aloe cryptopoda is poisonous if ingested.
Symptoms of aloin toxicity include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
8. Aloe Elata.
This plant is also known as the African Aloe, and is a member of the Asphodelaceae family. It is a native to Southern Africa, and grows in arid regions. The plant can grow up to four meters tall, and has large yellow flowers.
The leaves are thick and fleshy, and contain a gel-like substance. The plant is poisonous, and can cause nausea and vomiting if ingested. It is important to be aware of this plant, as it can be mistaken for the common aloe vera.
If you come across a plant that looks like aloe vera, but has yellow flowers, it is likely an Aloe Elata.
9. Aloe Grandidentata.
Aloe Grandidentata is a species of the Aloe genus.
The plant is native to Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania.
Aloe Grandidentata is a succulent plant that can grow up to four meters tall.
The leaves are green with white spots and have spines on the margins.
The flowers are yellow and borne on spikes up to two meters long.
Aloe Grandidentata is poisonous to humans and livestock.
The plant contains aloin, a compound that can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation.
Ingestion of the plant can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
10. Aloe Humilis.
Also known as the mountain aloe, this plant is a member of the lily family. It is native to southern Africa and can grow up to two feet tall.
The mountain aloe has yellow or orange flowers and its leaves are green with white spots. This plant is poisonous if ingested and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
11. Aloe koenenii.
Aloe koenenii is a species of flowering plant in the family Asphodelaceae, native to Ethiopia. The plant is closely related to Aloe vera and has similar properties. However, it is more toxic than Aloe vera and can cause severe contact dermatitis.
12. Aloe lineata.
This is a succulent plant that is often mistaken for aloe vera. It has similar looking leaves, but it is actually poisonous. The sap of this plant can cause skin irritation and stomach problems if ingested. If you have this plant in your home, be sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Aloe vera, on the other hand, is a safe plant to have around. The sap of this plant has been used for centuries to treat burns and cuts. It is also a popular ingredient in many skin care products.
13. Aloe Peglerae.
The plant is native to South Africa and Lesotho.
It is a succulent that can grow up to two meters tall.
The leaves are green and have white spots. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters.
The plant is poisonous if ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
14. Aloe Polyphylla.
This plant is also known as the Spiral Aloe, and is native to Lesotho. It is a succulent, which means it stores water in its leaves. The leaves are thick and fleshy, and they grow in a spiral pattern. The plant can grow up to five feet tall.
The Aloe Polyphylla is a beautiful plant, but it is also poisonous. The sap of the plant can cause skin irritation, and if ingested, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If you have this plant in your home, be sure to keep it away from children and pets.
15. Aloe Ruspoliana.
Aloe ruspoliana, also known as Russian Aloe, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Aloe. It is native to Russia and Uzbekistan. The plant has thick, blue-green leaves with white spots and red margins. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom in summer.
Aloe ruspoliana is poisonous to humans and animals. The sap contains aloin, a compound that can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. If ingested, seek medical attention immediately.
16. Aloe saponaria (Aloe maculata).
Aloe saponaria is a succulent plant that is native to southern Africa. The plant grows in dry, rocky areas and has long, strap-like leaves that are covered with white spots.
The sap of the aloe saponaria plant is poisonous and can cause severe stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
17. Aloe striata.
Aloe striata is a succulent plant that is native to Southern Africa. It is a member of the Aloeaceae family, and its close relatives include Aloe vera and Aloe ferox.
The plant grows to a height of 30-60 cm, and its leaves are green with white stripes. The flowers are yellow or orange, and they bloom in the summer.
Aloe striata is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested. The plant contains aloin, a bitter substance that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to liver damage or death. If you come into contact with the plant, wash your hands immediately with soap and water.
18. Aloe variegata
Aloe variegata is a species of flowering plant in the genus Aloe that is native to South Africa. The leaves are green and mottled with white spots. The flowers are yellow and borne on stalks up to 60 cm tall.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a list of plants that look like aloe vera. If you’re looking for a plant that has a similar appearance to aloe vera, then one of these should do the trick. As always, be sure to do your research before purchasing any plant, so that you can be sure it will thrive in your climate and environment. Thanks for reading!